This Summer, we spent our Sunday mornings looking at key themes in the letters by the Apostle Paul. The series “13 Letters” gave us a chance to look at the astounding wisdom, experience, and hope Paul shared with his friends, churches, and, even now, with today’s followers of Jesus. These invaluable letters make up half of the Bible’s New Testament.
At the highest level, the letters provide us a compelling picture of what the early church looked like, what the first followers of Jesus wrestled with in their own lives, and how they lived in light of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Majors themes of faith, hope, and love are apparent. But as we listened on Sunday mornings, we also heard of the freedom, unity, and encouragement given to us through Jesus. Through our generosity, by living the Spirit, and in our relationships with one another, we can actually bring pleasure to God. We were challenged to embraced the mystery, to see Jesus throughout the entire story of the Bible, and to “honor the emperor” while remaining faithful to the true and better King.
A great resource to help you continue walking through the 13 Letters, and even the rest of the New Testament, is the “New Testament for Everyone” series of books from N.T. Wright (you can buy them individually or as a set). Also check out the great Bible Plans from the Bible App to help you make the Bible a daily priority. And of course, you can always go back and listen to these messages below or any past messages in our Series Archive.
Tyler Crandall - May 4, 2025
May 4, 2025
On May 4, 2025, Pastor Tyler Crandall wrapped up our series "Finding Hope" with a message on the history of Pentecost, the giving of the Holy Spirit, and the presence of and spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit. Key ideas: Jesus promised His followers the Holy Spirit and Jesus always keeps his promises. Through the Holy Spirit, we become empowered agents of hope. Key Passages: Acts 1:4-5, Acts 1:7-8 Acts 2:1-12 Reflection/Application: 1. Where have you experienced the Holy Spirit in the “everyday?” 2. How has the Holy Spirit gifted you? 3. How is God inviting you to use your gift(s) to be an agent of hope? 4. Are there areas where you’ve been reluctant to step into your gifting(s) or receive the prompts of the Holy Spirit? What’s holding you back? Homework: Be on the lookout for opportunities to use your gift(s) and receive the prompts of the Holy Spirit. And then do it.
From Series: "Finding Hope"
A series about the miracles of Jesus and how we can find hope in these stories.
